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JANUARY 23, 2026

IMPORTANT DATES

Dear Parents,

We are closely watching the impending storm and will release information on school events once I receive word.

Please take a moment to watch a compelling session on Catholic liberal education with educator Elisabeth Sullivan. It emphasizes the timeless value of a classical approach rooted in the Catholic tradition. This method fosters deep intellectual and spiritual formation by engaging students with great works of literature, philosophy, and theology, encouraging them to seek truth, beauty, and goodness. As an ICLE-affiliated school, Saint Mary School embodies this vision, helping children develop critical thinking and moral virtues that transcend fleeting trends.

A recent article in The Washing Post explores how classical education equips students to thrive amid the rise of artificial intelligence, which experts predict will disrupt up to 50% of entry-level white-collar jobs in the coming years. Unlike modern tech-dependent schooling that risks making students reliant on AI for basic tasks, classical methods build a strong foundation through memorization of history, poetry, and speeches, fostering independent thought and innovation. This approach teaches children to use technology as a tool rather than a crutch, enabling them to evaluate AI outputs critically and adapt to economic changes with resilience and virtue. I encourage all parents to read through this short article.



Know that at Saint Mary School, our ICLE-inspired curriculum integrates these principles, ensuring your children are well-prepared for an uncertain future dominated by AI. By prioritizing memory, reason, and ethical formation over vocational training for obsolete skills, we cultivate self-reliant individuals who can lead with prudence and courage. We encourage you to embrace this educational path, knowing it will empower your children to endure and excel in any era, drawing on the rich heritage of Catholic liberal arts.

Warmly,

Mr. Johnson

Head of School

Saint Mary School

732-671-0129

JANUARY

Sun., Jan 25 Catholic Schools Week Mass. 10:00 am

Jan., 26–30 Catholic Schools Week


Wed., Jan 28 12:05 pm Dismissal, Staff Professional Learning 


Fri., Jan 30 STAR Window #2 Closes

Head of School Open Discussion

An open invitation to all parents to attend any or all of the dates below, in the Cafeteria.

2/11/26, 8:30AM – 9:30AM

3/11/26, 6:00PM – 7:00PM

4/15/26, 8:30AM – 9:30AM

5/13/26, 6:00PM – 7:00PM

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR PASTOR

Dear Parents of Saint Mary School,

This week, I have the great privilege of attending a Symposium for Priests on the Renewal of Catholic Education at the Augustine Institute in St. Louis, Missouri. This sold-out gathering brings together priests from across the country who are deeply committed to renewing Catholic education through the Catholic Classical Liberal Arts tradition. It’s a powerful and hope-filled experience to be among shepherds who share a common conviction: Catholic schools must be unmistakably Catholic rooted in truth, centered on Jesus Christ, and faithful in both mission and practice.

Being part of this symposium has only deepened my gratitude for the tremendous blessings we experience at Saint Mary School. I am continually inspired by our dedicated faculty, the joy and faith of our students, and most especially by you, our amazing families. Your commitment to Catholic education, your trust in our mission, and your daily sacrifices for your children are a true witness to the life of faith we strive to cultivate together.

Please know that every Saint Mary School family is always in my prayers. I would love the opportunity to gather with you in prayer and fellowship, and I warmly invite you to join me on Friday, January 30th for Family Rosary, Pizza, and Fellowship. It will be a beautiful evening to pray together as families and to thank God for the gift of our school community. May the Lord continue to bless you and your children abundantly.

With gratitude and blessings,

Father Jeff Kegley

Pastor

PARENT CORNER

Please take a moment to watch this video from Eric Youncofski. He is Saint Mary School parent and a Saint Mary School Board Member.

After the 10:00 AM Mass this past Sunday, Eric shared a heartfelt testimony on why his family chose a Classical Catholic Education at Saint Mary School.

He spoke about the importance of forming children in faith, truth, and virtue from the very beginning—an education that doesn’t follow trends, but stands the test of time.

Eric's Bio: A seasoned professional in the sports marketing industry, Eric Youncofski brings years of experience to Saint Mary School.During his career, Mr. Youncofski has held leadership roles at both the University ofConnecticut and the University of RhodeIsland. A proud native of Middletown, he has deep ties to the SaintMary community. He is inspired by the Catholic Classical Liberal ArtsEducation offered at the school, where his son is currently enrolled.Mr. Youncofski is committed to helping the school grow and advancing the parish mission

CLASSICAL MUSINGS

A Catholic school is not a public school.

This seemingly obvious statement is not as obvious as it seems. Many families who enroll in a Catholic school are looking for stronger academics, greater and more positive discipline, a moral code, and safety for their children. These are all good reasons and certainly what should be found in a Catholic school. But they are the result of our Catholic identity, but they are not our purpose.

Every Catholic school that is true to its name has five “marks” that are non-negotiable parts of its identity. Briefly, Christ is the center, we form students, we see the world through the Gospel, build community and witness to what we teach. Everything that a Catholic school does and teaches springs from this identity which is often very different from what a non-Catholic school does and teaches. A public school is preparing young people for the workforce. A Catholic school is forming them for success in this life with heaven as the ultimate goal. This is a big difference.

In a future Musings we will look at these “marks” in a bit more depth.



Pat Mullen

Vice Principal

OPEN HOUSE UPDATE

We are keeping an eye on the storm and will make a decision soon about the Open House.

PTA CORNER

We are ready for a bake-off with our Annual Cup Cake Wars. This year we included a special contest for Tiny Tots through Kindergarten.

FOR GRADES 1 – 5

FOR TINY TOTS – KINDERGARTEN

SPIRIT WEAR IS NOW AVAILABLE!

Show off your school pride with our latest Spirit Wear collection! Hoodies, crewnecks, and accessories are now on sale. Don’t miss your chance to gear up and represent SMS in style.

Order yours today! Use the link below.

This Valentine's Day, we invite you to create a delightful surprise for your child that embodies the love and joy we cherish at Saint Mary Catholic School. This thoughtful gesture not only brightens their day but also reinforces the values of kindness and generosity that we strive to nurture within our vibrant community. Let this Valentine's Day be a moment of joy that resonates within your family and the entire Saint Mary School community!

LUNCH MENU

PARENT RESOURCE CORNER

SAINT MARY MOTHER OF GOD CHURCH

Become a Member of Saint Mary Parish!

We warmly invite you to register as a member of Saint Mary, Mother of God Church. There are so many blessings and benefits to becoming an official part of our church community, including:

• A deeper sense of belonging and spiritual support
• Access to parish events, ministries and sacraments
• Opportunities to serve and grow in faith
• Staying informed through parish communications
  

Join us as we grow together in faith, fellowship, and service. We look forward to welcoming you! If you have any questions please call 732-671-0071

AROUND THE CAMPUS